By now we’ve all heard the most buzzed-about phrase to enter the pandemic lexicon: social distancing. In its essence, it means avoiding close contact with people who don’t live with you. As social creatures (even those who are avowed introverts), the directive—extolled by health experts worldwide—can be disorienting. The engine of our daily lives runs on our interactions with people, whether at work or at play.

But social distancing is really about minding physical proximity, not emotional isolation. In our golden age of tech and social media, we have unlimited tools to stay in touch with one another, whether we live on the same block or in different countries. Here are some suggestions for maintaining connections despite the separation.

Happy hour

Working from home and missing your officemates? Schedule a virtual happy hour through video conferencing platforms like Google Hangout or Zoom. Pick a time, grab your favorite beverage and get comfortable in front of the camera with people you won’t see in person for a while. google.com, zoom.com.

Brunch

If you’re missing those weekend mimosas, call up some friends on FaceTime as you simultaneously make brunch favorites like French toast and eggs Benedict. Also, check with your favorite restaurants like DW Bistro, which plans to host a virtual brunch for its customers. (Please note that DW’s dining room is currently closed.) 9275 W. Russell Road #190, 702-527-5200, dwbistro.com.

Yoga

You can still get your om on while namaste-ing at home. TruFusion is offering virtual classes to keep people connected and healthy. Classes are scheduled throughout the day, and members can log in and follow along at home on their mats. Better yet, FaceTime a friend and do a class together. Multiple locations, trufusion.com.

Crafting

In the knitting world, knitters engage in what they call “knitalongs,” in which they pick a project like a sweater or scarf and make it simultaneously. Along the way, knitters share tips and encouragement. Find a knitalong online, then get your supplies and support a local yarn shop like Mad Knitter’s Yarn, which is offering order pickups Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 1590 W. Horizon Ridge Parkway #170, 702-778-3600, madknittersyarn.com.

Daily walks

Gyms have shuttered, but you can still engage in an excellent, free form of exercise. Need extra motivation to get out there? Meet up with a friend, walk on opposite sides of the street, and talk to each other on the phone via headphones. Or, if you’re walking solo, it’s the perfect time to catch up with loved ones by phone.

Collective binge-watching

It’s the golden age of streaming TV, and the only thing better than binge-watching a great show is talking about it with others. Download the Chrome extension Netflix Party, which lets you watch Netflix remotely with friends. It synchronizes playback and offers a group chat function, so you and your friends can have a running commentary while watching Love Is Blind. netflixparty.com.

Dance party

Vent Dance + Creative Sessions was founded by local Michelle St. Angelo as a way to find catharsis for her emotions. The sessions are split into two parts: freestyle dance guided by movement instructors followed by quiet reflection and solo time. Now the dance party has become virtual. Find a spot in your living room and dance your heart—and your anxieties—away with other whirling dervishes. facebook.com/vent.dance.creative.

Checking in on neighbors

Now’s the time to get to know your neighbors better—virtually. Download Nextdoor, an app that encourages neighbors to exchange tips and recommendations in a private social network. In these uncertain times, you might find yourself completely out of toilet paper, and someone nearby might have a stash from Costco. Or better yet, check in on those who are most vulnerable. nextdoor.com.